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The Certified Proof Silver Eagle 2018-W PR70DCAM PCGS First Strike represents the pinnacle of modern American numismatics, combining flawless condition, beautiful design, and historic significance. This coin is part of the prestigious American Silver Eagle series, which began in 1986 and has since become the most popular silver bullion coin program in the world. Issued by the United States Mint, the Silver Eagle series serves not only as legal tender but also as a vehicle for precious metal investment and a beloved series for collectors of modern American coinage. The 2018-W proof version continues this tradition with striking clarity and immaculate finish.
The American Silver Eagle was authorized by the Liberty Coin Act of 1985 and was first released the following year. The proof versions are struck with special dies and polished planchets, giving them a mirror-like field and frosted devices. The “W” mint mark on this coin indicates it was struck at the West Point Mint, which has been the primary producer of proof Silver Eagles since 2001. The 2018-W Proof Silver Eagle is part of the long-running annual proof program and was released to widespread acclaim. Its inclusion as a “First Strike” by PCGS means it was received by the grading service within 30 days of its official release, enhancing its collectibility and prestige.
The obverse of the 2018-W Silver Eagle features the beloved "Walking Liberty" design by Adolph A. Weinman, first introduced on the Walking Liberty Half Dollar in 1916. Lady Liberty strides confidently toward the rising sun, draped in the American flag and holding laurel and oak branches symbolizing civil and military glory. The word “LIBERTY” arcs across the top of the coin, while the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” appears to the right, and the date “2018” is placed at the bottom. This design remains a powerful symbol of American ideals and one of the most revered images in all of U.S. coinage.
The reverse of the coin was created by John Mercanti, 12th Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint, and it showcases a heraldic eagle with shield. The eagle holds an olive branch in its right talon and arrows in its left, representing the balance of peace and strength. Above the eagle are thirteen stars arranged in a triangle, a tribute to the original thirteen colonies. The inscriptions include “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “1 OZ. FINE SILVER~ONE DOLLAR,” and the “W” mint mark. This design was used on proof Silver Eagles from 1986 through 2021, making it an enduring icon of the series’ classic era.
The 2018-W Proof Silver Eagle was struck in one troy ounce of .999 fine silver with a diameter of 40.6 millimeters and a reeded edge. Proof coins like this are struck multiple times under higher pressure using specially prepared dies, which results in a sharp, detailed finish with deeply frosted devices and mirrorlike fields—known in grading terms as "Deep Cameo" or "DCAM." These high-contrast surfaces are a hallmark of the finest proof coins and are particularly pronounced in the 2018 issue, which showcases exceptional die polish and strike quality.
This specific coin has been certified by PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) as PR70DCAM, indicating a flawless proof coin with no post-production imperfections visible under 5x magnification. It is the highest possible grade a proof coin can receive, placing it at the very top of the condition scale. The “First Strike” designation further enhances its value, signifying it was submitted for grading within 30 days of its official release by the Mint. Collectors and investors both prize this label, as it links the coin to the earliest moments of the production run, often considered the most desirable specimens.
The West Point Mint, where the 2018-W Proof Silver Eagle was struck, has a reputation for superior craftsmanship. Located in New York, the West Point facility was granted official mint status in 1988, though it had been producing coinage and bullion for decades prior. Proof Silver Eagles struck there are known for their crisp detail, flawless surfaces, and meticulous quality control. The Mint’s advanced techniques and stringent standards have made West Point-struck coins some of the most respected in the world of modern numismatics.
While the U.S. Mint does not place mintage limits on all its proof coins, the 2018-W Proof Silver Eagle saw a final mintage of 381,738, according to official records. Although this figure is not the lowest in the series, it is significantly less than peak mintage years, adding relative scarcity to its desirability. Moreover, only a portion of these coins were submitted to PCGS and awarded the elite PR70DCAM First Strike grade, making such examples even more sought after among high-end collectors and registry set competitors.
The condition of the 2018-W Silver Eagle in PR70DCAM is, by definition, perfect. It exhibits pristine surfaces, no visible flaws, and impeccable contrast between the frosted elements and mirrored fields. Housed in a PCGS slab with the First Strike label, it is well-protected and authenticated, ensuring its long-term preservation and resale potential. These attributes make it an ideal acquisition for collectors seeking top-tier examples and for investors who want premium modern bullion with added numismatic appeal. As part of a certified population that represents only the finest produced examples, it occupies a distinguished status in the market.
The 2018-W PR70DCAM PCGS First Strike Silver Eagle stands out as a shining example of American coin artistry and minting excellence. It combines the historic motifs of Weinman and Mercanti with modern craftsmanship and flawless execution. For those who collect the Silver Eagle series by date, finish, or certification, this coin represents a key modern issue that reflects both quality and patriotic legacy. Whether added to a registry set or admired for its beauty, it offers enduring value backed by silver content, iconic imagery, and unmatched grading. As the series continues to evolve, coins like this remain benchmarks of its golden age of design and execution.